A scientist performs an experiment by placing petroleum jelly on under side of plant leaves. This blocks the leaves’ stomata. The plant continues to be watered and is located in a sunny spot. What will the scientist observe?(1 point)
Responses
The plant goes into hibernation.
The plant goes into hibernation.
The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.
The plant grows, flowers, and seeds.
The plant withers and dies.
The plant withers and dies.
The plant grows and thrives.
The plant grows and thrives.
The plant withers and dies.
The scientist will observe that the plant withers and dies.
To answer this question, we can use our understanding of stomata and their role in plant physiology. Stomata are tiny openings on the underside of plant leaves that allow for gas exchange, including the intake of carbon dioxide (CO2) for photosynthesis and the release of oxygen (O2) and water vapor (H2O). By blocking the stomata with petroleum jelly, the scientist is preventing the plant from taking in CO2 and releasing O2 and H2O.
Since photosynthesis relies on the intake of CO2, blocking the stomata will inhibit this process. As a result, the plant will have limited access to carbon, which is crucial for growth and survival. Without sufficient carbon, the plant's metabolic processes will slow down, leading to reduced growth and eventually the death of the plant. Therefore, the correct response is "The plant withers and dies."